Diskit Monastery

The main and unique attraction of Diskit monastery is a gigantic statue of Lord Buddha on the top of it. This popular monastery is located in the Nubra Valley of Ladakh. This famous tourist attraction is considered one of the oldest as well as the largest Buddhist centers in Ladakh. The Diskit monastery was constructed during the 14th century by Changzem Tserab Zangpo. The huge 100-foot Maitreya Buddha statue, inaugurated by the well-known holy priest Dalai Lama, is the key attraction among a number of tourists across the globe. Travellers love to experience the magnificent view of Nubra Valley from the top of the monastery where the statue is installed.

The Diskit Monastery authority, with the help of a non-governmental organization (NGO) called Tibet Support Group, runs a school for the Tibetan children of the local region. The school teaches science subjects and has computer facilities. The main part of the monastery is a prayer hall that features several images of fierce guardian deities and a huge drum. The Diskit monastery features plenty of shrines along with Tibetan and Mongolian texts in the storehouse. According to Mongol mythology, an anti-Buddhist Mongol demon lived in the Diskit monastery, and he was killed. And today, the body parts along with the wrinkled head of the demon are believed to remain inside the monastery.

Things to do at Diskit Monastery

The Maitrayi Buddha statue of 106 feet height facing the Shyok River impresses the tourist across the globe and is considered the key attraction of Diskit monastery. The construction of this very statue was started in the year 2006 and was consecrated by the well-known holy priest Dalai Lama in the year 2010 on 25th July. If you are planning to visit Diskit monastery they do not forget to visit the river below the monastery. Otherwise, you are advised to visit the amazing gompa of the Hundar village just nearby the Diskit monastery. The village is also very famous among tourists for its spectacular scenery.

There is a popular festival that takes place at the Diskit monastery called Dosmoche. This festival is celebrated during the winter season. The word ‘Dosmoche’ stands for “Festival of the Scapegoat”. The local residents and village people participate in the festival. Dosmoche normally takes place during the month of January. Try to attend this festival to experience a different taste of rituals.

How to Reach Diskit Monastery

The easiest way to get to the Diskit monastery is to board a local bus or hire a taxi from Sumur or Leh. Most of the transport from Leh departs via the Khardung La Pass. After you reach Nubra, you are advised to rent a local taxi to visit different tourist attractions near Nubra Valley. The monastery is located at a very high altitude. To reach there, travelers need to walk along the chortens.

Best Time to Visit Diskit Monastery

Are you packing your bags to visit Diskit monastery? If yes, then make sure that you have booked your tickets during the months from July to September, as this is considered the best time period to visit Nubra Valley. The roads remain clear during these months. If you want to experience the cultural festival Dosmoche at the Diskit monastery, then you have to visit the place during the months of December and January. But to know the exact date of the festival, you are required to research a bit on the internet before booking your tickets. Remember, during the winter season, the roads of Leh remain closed due to heavy snowfall.

Read the given information above and enjoy your wonderful vacation in Ladakh.